Transparent star Jeffery Tambor under investigation by Amazon after sexual misconduct allegations
(Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
Amazon has opened an investigation into Transparent star Jeffery Tambor after allegations were made by his former assistant.
In a private Facebook post, actress Van Barnes said that Tambor acted in a sexually inappropriate manner towards her during her time on the show.
Barnes initially worked on Transparent as a consultant due to her own experiences as a trans woman serving as the inspiration for the character Devina, who acts as a mentor to Tambor’s character.
Following this work, Barnes was then hired as Tambor’s personal assistant.
Amazon has confirmed to Deadline that an investigation is underway.
They followed this by saying that it is “very early” in proceedings and therefore would not comment further.
The cast of Transparent at a Season Four screening (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for Amazon Studios)
Transparent creator Jill Soloway has also responded to the allegations, telling the Hollywood Reporter: “Anything that would diminish the level of respect, safety and inclusion so fundamental to our workplace is completely antithetical to our principles.
“We are cooperating with the investigation into this matter.”
As well as her work on Transparent, Van Barnes made appearances on the now cancelled show ‘I am Cait’ along with Caitlyn Jenner.
Caitlyn Jenner appeared in Transparent’s third season, giving a brief cameo.
Tambor has responded to the allegations in a statement to Deadline: “I adamantly and vehemently reject and deny any and all implication and allegation that I have ever engaged in any improper behaviour toward this person or any other person I have ever worked with.
“I am appalled and distressed by this baseless allegation.”
Van Barnes’ legal representation responded to enquiries from The Hollywood Reporter by saying: “My client currently has no comment, however, Ms. Barnes stands by the statement she made on her private social media account as part of the #metoo movement.”
Transparent is one of Amazon’s most successful shows, with the series reaching critical acclaim over its four series.
Last month, a prominent Amazon Studios executive resigned following allegations of sexual harassment.
